The arrival of summer often triggers a property exodus that energises the holiday home market. Many families begin searching for a second home where they can spend the summer months and escape the heat. However, the excitement of finding the perfect property, the pressure to complete a purchase during the holiday season, or the distance from the property can cause buyers to overlook key issues that may later result in costly repairs or difficult-to-resolve problems.
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Although these recommendations are particularly relevant during the summer months, when demand for holiday homes peaks, the mistakes highlighted here can apply to any property purchase.
The Official College of Quantity Surveyors and Technical Architects of Madrid has identified the five most common mistakes made when buying a holiday home and offers advice on how to avoid them before signing the purchase contract.
The most expensive defects are often hidden
Falling in love with the views or the layout of a property is perfectly natural. However, before making any commitment, it is essential to carry out a thorough technical inspection to assess the condition of the structure, roof, installations and any signs of damp.
The most expensive defects are often those that cannot be seen at first glance. A chartered building surveyor or technical architect can identify issues that your enthusiasm may obscure and estimate the cost of any necessary repairs before the contract is signed.
Mistaking a stain for a minor issue
Coastal environments accelerate the corrosion of structural elements and joinery, while also speeding up the deterioration of external finishes. In mountain areas, moisture can penetrate through poorly maintained roofs and unresolved thermal bridges.
Both environments place considerable strain on a building's envelope. What appears to be a minor stain may actually be the visible sign of a structural defect or waterproofing problem with significant repair costs.
It is also important to distinguish between condensation and leaks. Where there is adequate air circulation, condensation is less likely; where persistent damp is present, there may be a more serious underlying issue.
Failing to inspect installations
Outdated electrical systems, ageing plumbing, lead pipes and inefficient or inadequate air-conditioning systems are among the factors that most significantly increase refurbishment costs after purchase.
Checking these elements in advance is not simply a matter of paperwork; it can represent a substantial financial saving. A preliminary inspection may help buyers negotiate a lower purchase price or accurately assess the investment required.
The difference between a minor refurbishment and a full-scale renovation often lies in the condition of these installations.
Common areas matter too
In residential developments and blocks of flats, the condition of the building itself is just as important as that of the individual property.
The roof, façade, lift, swimming pool and communal areas should all be assessed. If the building has outstanding assessments, or if a Technical Building Inspection (ITE) or Building Evaluation Report (IEE) identifies serious deficiencies, the buyer may ultimately inherit those liabilities.
Requesting the minutes of residents' association meetings and reviewing any available technical reports before signing is a basic precaution that many buyers overlook.
An empty home still requires maintenance
A property left unoccupied for extended periods tends to accumulate problems. Damp can develop, joints may deteriorate, seals can fail and pests may appear.
Maintaining a holiday home is often more demanding – not less – than maintaining a regularly occupied property. This may involve checking roofs and gutters in mountain areas, applying anti-corrosion treatments on the coast, cleaning drains, inspecting shut-off valves and locks that remain unused for months and ensuring regular ventilation.
As the quantity surveyors conclude: "It is not a luxury; it is what makes the difference between preserving a property's value and allowing it to depreciate. Understanding these costs before buying is part of making an informed investment decision."
